Michron enables smartphone-controlled timelapse photography

We've seen a steady flow of devices emerge and attempt to bridge the gap between the amateur photographers and those creating time-lapse masterpieces. The Astro camera mount, for example, reduced the required technology to a three-ringed device that fits in your pocket, while the Genie and Camalapse went one step further to incorporate panning and tracking shots for those wanting a little creative freedom. These factors considered, the Michron is by no means revolutionary, but with no buttons, screens or dials, it may be the most simplified and user-friendly installment yet.

Much like other time-lapse devices, the Michron allows users to input settings such as frame-rate and duration, however these are controlled entirely through the free smartphone app (available for iOS and Android). Once the settings are saved in the app, the user plugs their phone into the Michron, which then stores the settings and when connected to a camera via the external trigger port, executes the time-lapse completely on its own (phone unplugged).

The device is designed to sit in a camera’s hotshoe mount (where an external flash is attached), and comprises a plastic casing that encloses a printed circuit board (PCB) and a single battery, which the company says will power the device for a whopping 2,500 hours.

Despite its small size, the Michron still boasts several impressive features. Interval Ramping allows the user to alter the time between shots during the time-lapse, while Bulb Ramping means the Michron will continually adjust the shutter speed of the camera in accordance with the settings, useful for shooting over a period where the light is likely to change (such as a sunset or sunrise). HDR Bracketing means for every shot taken, Michron will record three, so if one is too dark or overexposed, users can edit the best bit of each into one image. The device also works as an external trigger, allowing for photos to be taken remotely by phone, so preventing camera shake in low-light environments.

Michron works with any digital cameras that have an external trigger port and is currently the subject of a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. A single unit, trigger cable and programming cable is pitched at US$50. The campaign has already sailed past its funding goal and, if all goes well, shipping is estimated for March 2014.

Nick was born outside of Melbourne, Australia, with a general curiosity that has drawn him to some distant (and very cold) places. Somewhere between enduring a winter in the Canadian Rockies and trekking through Chilean Patagonia, he graduated from university and pursued a career in journalism. He now writes for Gizmag, excited by tech and all forms of innovation, Melbourne's bizarre weather and curried egg sandwiches. All articles by Nick LavarsFollow @NickLavars